The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has secured a significant victory for justice following the sentencing of two Congolese nationals by the Taung Regional Court. Musore Djosia, 32, and Hasuamni Handre Saluma, 36, were sentenced to life imprisonment after being convicted on multiple charges, including two counts of rape, one count of sexual assault, and contravention of Immigration Act.
These convictions stem from a harrowing incident that occurred on 03 April 2023 near Seoding Village in Taung.
Deceptive practices and the incident
The perpetrators manipulated their way into a home by falsely presenting themselves as traditional healers to assist the family with alleged spiritual challenges. After gaining the family's trust and receiving payment for their services, the accused exploited the situation once the victim's uncle left the premises to watch a soccer match. During the purported ritual, both men raped and sexually assaulted three victims, aged 22, 36, and 48.
Legal proceedings and sentencing
Following investigations and the successful opposition of bail, it was established that both men were unlawfully present in South Africa. During the sentencing proceedings, State Prosecutor Rebaona Mokgopa highlighted how the accused had exploited the trust placed in them, undermining the integrity of legitimate traditional healers who serve communities in good faith. The court agreed, noting that the accused had betrayed the trust of the victims who had relied on them for assistance.
The court imposed concurrent sentences, resulting in an effective term of life imprisonment for each accused. Furthermore, both offenders were ordered to be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders.
Dr. Rachel Makhari, Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, commended Prosecutor Rebaona Mokgopa for her diligent work and praised the investigating officers for their efforts in securing justice for the victims. She also reaffirmed the NPA's commitment to vigorously prosecuting gender-based violence and ensuring justice for victims.